Seasoned, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Columbia, MD
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
You might be planning for your child's college expenses and want to use tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans or UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) accounts. Without careful planning, you could miss opportunities to maximize savings or unintentionally affect financial aid eligibility.
- Account type suitability. Confirm which savings vehicles they recommend for your goals and why, considering tax benefits and flexibility.
- Investment strategy for education. Ask how they balance growth potential with risk as your child approaches college age.
- Coordination with estate plans. Since Maryland has estate and inheritance taxes, check how they integrate college savings with your broader estate strategy.
- Experience with changing rules. College savings rules evolve; ensure they stay current to avoid surprises in tax treatment or contribution limits.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
-
Timothy M
Series 65
Columbia, MD
Pointer Financial Advisors LLC
Timothy Mudd offers seasoned expertise in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 27 years in the industry and a Series 65 designation. At Pointer Financial Advisors LLC, he provides discretionary investment management with customized portfolios tailored to client goals and risk tolerance, distinguishing him through a comprehensive approach that integrates tax planning and ongoing account reviews in Columbia, MD.
Experience: 27 years
Avg account: $1,103,114
-
John F
Series 63, Series 65, Series 66
Columbia, MD
Merrill
John Foard brings over 31 years of experience in wealth management, including expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, making him well-equipped to guide families in Columbia, MD. Affiliated with Merrill, a large firm, he offers a disciplined investment approach with a 1.10% AUM fee, and his focus on values-based investing and personalized portfolio management distinguishes him from other advisors.
Experience: 32 years
Avg account: $860,085
-
Taiyoung L
Series 65
Columbia, MD
Wealthy & Wise Family Office
Taiyoung Lee offers seasoned expertise in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by over 20 years of industry experience and a Series 65 designation. Operating from Columbia, MD, he serves small business owners and professionals through Wealthy & Wise Family Office, providing customized investment management and flexible fee options, which may appeal to clients seeking tailored, comprehensive financial planning.
Experience: 21 years
Avg account: $335,638
-
Richard W
CFP®, ChFC®, Series 63, Series 65
Columbia, MD
Financial First Advisors, Inc.
Richard Wagener's extensive 52 years of experience and CFP® and ChFC® credentials equip him to handle college savings strategies effectively, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts. His firm offers flat-fee comprehensive plans and serves a diverse client base, providing tailored investment consulting and estate planning guidance, which may benefit those seeking seasoned, independent advice in Columbia, MD.
Experience: 52 years
-
Deirdre M
CFP®, Series 63, Series 66
Columbia, MD
LPL Financial
Deirdre Mc Elroy's 25 years of experience and CFP® certification equip her to guide college savings strategies using 529 and UTMA accounts in Columbia, MD. Affiliated with LPL Financial, a large firm offering diverse planning and investment options, she provides flat-fee financial planning and serves a broad client base, distinguishing her approach from others with her extensive industry background and firm resources.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $399,489
Want help finding the right advisor?
Answer a few questions to see advisors matched to you.
Advisors focused on
People also searched
Popular in Columbia, MD
Find advisors by type
Not sure where to start?
We'll help you think it through—whether you ultimately need an advisor or not. Warmer helps you compare advisors clearly, so you can choose with confidence.
For advisor listings, we rely on sources including public filings and data provided by advisors, and we cannot guarantee that all information is current or accurate. Advisors are independent and may not have reviewed or updated this information. Please review an advisor’s Form ADV and do your own diligence before deciding whether to work with them.
Advisor matching and introductions are provided by FinanceHQ LLC (“FHQ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Warmer and an SEC-registered investment advisor. We receive compensation from certain participating advisors for introductions or referrals. This creates a conflict of interest because we have an incentive to recommend advisors who compensate us, including those who pay us more. You pay no fee to use our matching service, and advisor fees are not increased because of a referral or introduction. We do not review the ongoing performance of advisors, manage or hold assets, guarantee performance, or provide advice about specific investments.
By using our service, you agree to our Terms of Service and Advisory Agreement, and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. Please review FHQ’s ADV Part 2A and Form CRS. Logos provided by Logo.dev
© 2026 Warmer Holdings Inc. (“Warmer”)